Frequently Asked Questions on the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)
What is H1N1?
H1N1 Virus (Swine flu) is a respiratory disease caused by a new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1 that derives from one strain of human influenza, one strain of avian influenza, and two separate strains of H1N1 influenza. This particular strain of flu virus is believed to have mutated from a similar influenza virus that primarily affects swine, hence the name "swine flu." The strain in most cases causes only mild symptoms.
Are there human infections of H1N1 flu in the U.S.?
An updated case count of confirmed H1N1 flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1 flu/investigation.htm. CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.
Is this H1N1 flu virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this H1N1 influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?
The symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
How does H1N1 flu spread?
Flu viruses are spread primarily through contact with individuals that have influenza. Just like the regular flu, swine flu is spread through close contact with someone who is infected – by touching, or being in close proximity when an ill person is sneezing or coughing. Additionally, individuals may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it (i.e. high traffic objects such as doorknobs, railings, etc.) and then touching their face.
Are there medicines to treat H1N1 flu?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these H1N1 influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (i.e. pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your immune system. If you become ill, antiviral drugs can improve your condition and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after the onset of symptoms.
How long can an infected person spread H1N1 flu to others?
People with H1N1 influenza should be considered potentially contagious for up to 7 days following the onset of illness. Children, especially younger children, could potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
The H1N1 virus can spread when a person touches something that is contaminated and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine currently available to protect against H1N1 flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your face when you cough or sneeze and do not have a tissue. Clean your hands every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
- Washing your hands for 15 to 20 seconds will help protect you from germs.
- Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner.
- When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
Contact your health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people for at least twenty-four hours or as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.
If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
- Fast breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Not waking up or not interacting
- Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
- Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
Can I get H1N1 influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. H1N1 influenza viruses are not spread through food. You cannot get H1N1 influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
Where can I find more information?
Toll-free hotlines:
Website Resources:
- The New York State Government Hotline: 1-800-808-1987
- New York City Hotline: 311
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 1-800-232-4636
New Media Resources:
- Department of Health and Human Services Updated School Resources:
http://www.flu.gov/plan/school/index.html- New York City Health Department: http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- English: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu
- Spanish: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/espanol
- Frequently Asked Questions: Is it a cold, or is it the flu?:
http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/flu-cold-symptoms
- CDC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CDCemergency
